Fear that allows dad's killers to evade justice

THE killers of an innocent dad have escaped justice because those who know their identity fear retribution, an inquest was told. Shane Eckersley, 40, suffered horrific head injuries when he was attacked outside the Saigon restaurant and bar in Salford.

THE killers of an innocent dad have escaped justice because those who know their identity fear retribution, an inquest was told.

Shane Eckersley, 40, suffered horrific head injuries when he was attacked outside the Saigon restaurant and bar in Lower Broughton Road, Salford.

At least 20 people were close by when up to seven hooded men punched and kicked him as he lay unconscious on a pavement.

A number of men have been interviewed by detectives over the attack in November 2002 and refused to comment when questioned.

No one has been charged with his murder and the file remains open.

Now Coroner Jennifer Leeming has urged those who know the names of the killers to break their silence.

At the time of his death Mr Eckersley, who leaves a son, who is now 14, was getting his life back together after beating a heroin addiction.

Kisses

A joiner by trade, he was working as a volunteer at a day centre in Prestwich to help others with problems.

A hearing in Bolton was told Mr Eckersley, of Gingham Park, Radcliffe, had gone to the Saigon with his friend Neil Snelgrove, who was involved in a minor dispute with a man who annoyed him by blowing kisses.

Mr Eckersley tried to act as a peacemaker.

But outside the two friends were attacked. Pc Paul Twist, who arrived during the disturbance, said he saw two men kicking Mr Eckersley in the head as he lay on the ground.

Other witnesses said that up to seven men attacked Mr Eckersley who did not retaliate but put his hands over his head to protect himself.

Consultant pathologist Dr Naomi Carter said the blow to Mr Eckersley's head as he hit the pavement had caused a brain haemorrhage.

But he had received six more blows which could have contributed to the brain damage he suffered.

Recording a verdict of unlawful killing, Mrs Leeming said: "Fear gives the opportunity for those guilty of this kind of crime to continue. I implore those that have information about his death to come forward."